Cutting-free bronze alloys

Abstract

A cutting-free bronze alloy which is substantially free of lead contains 1 to 13 wt. % of tin, not larger than 18 wt. % of zinc, 0.5 to 6 wt. % of bismuth, 0.05 to 3 wt. % of antimony, not larger than 1 wt. % of phosphorus, less than 0.4 wt. % of lead, and the balance being copper. The alloy may further contain 0.1 to 3 wt. % of nickel. When 3 to 8 wt. % of tin and 6 to 10 wt. % of zinc are present, the alloy is particularly suitable for use as a plumbing faucet and fixture. Likewise, when 8.5 to 13 wt. % of tin and not larger than 1 wt. % of zinc are present, the alloy is suitable for use as a sliding member.

What is claimed is:  
     
       1. In a plumbing component used in contact with water, the improvement comprising said component comprising a cutting free bronze consisting of 3 to 8 wt. % Sn, 6 to 10 wt. % Zn, 0.5 to 6 wt. % Bi, 0.05 to 2 wt. % Sb, 0.001 to 0.5 wt. % P, less than 0.2 wt. % Pb, and the balance Cu. 
     
     
       2. In a plumbing component used in contact with water, the improvement comprising said component comprising a cutting free bronze consisting of 3 to 8 wt. % Sn, 6 to 10 wt. % Zn, 0.5 to 6 wt. % Bi, 0.05 to 2 wt. % Sb, 0.001 to 0.5 wt. % P, less than 0.2 wt. % Pb, 0.1 to 3 wt. % Ni, and the balance Cu.